Adrian stepped out of the bustling arcade, leaving behind the flashing lights, noisy chatter, and his group of friends. The crisp air outside the mall greeted him, providing a refreshing change from the heated chaos indoors. His throat felt dry, so he made his way to a nearby kiosk and bought a bottle of cold water. As the cool liquid slid down his throat, he felt instantly refreshed. He had been here all day and it was already two o'clock.
With renewed energy, Adrian strolled through the mall, his eyes wandering from shop window to shop window. He couldn’t help but smile at the colorful displays, each store offering something captivating, whether it was the intricate designs of a watch or the rich hues of clothing on mannequins. His mind, once clouded with fatigue, seemed clearer now. Every step made him feel lighter, his mood lifting as he admired the beautiful things around him.
Just as he turned the corner, his shoulder brushed against someone. Before he could continue, a sharp voice cut through the air, Watch where you're going, monkey!
Adrian stopped in his tracks, stunned for a moment. He looked up to meet the gaze of a tall, scowling man, his expression full of disdain. Excuse me? Adrian replied, his voice steady, though a flicker of irritation stirred within him.
You heard me you ghetto looking fucker...a mutt at that the man said.
Great, a racist Adrian thought. He looked at the man and tried to work away but the man stepped in front of him.
Adrian clenched his fists instinctively, feeling the heat of the man’s words burn into him. He could feel the tension rising in the pit of his stomach, but he forced himself to stay calm. His pulse quickened, but he didn’t want to give this man the satisfaction of seeing him react.
Get out of my way, Adrian said, his voice steady, but his patience thinned.
The man sneered, taking a step closer, crowding Adrian’s space. What’s the matter? Can’t handle a little truth? His voice was venomous, laced with the kind of hatred that Adrian had learned to recognize all too well. You don’t belong here. People like you never do.
Adrian’s jaw tightened, and he met the man’s gaze, refusing to look away. He could feel the weight of all the moments in his life when he’d had to deal with this—ignorance, cruelty, the never-ending cycle of being judged before even saying a word.
I’m not here to entertain your ignorance, and quit playing with me, the gangster in me hates it Adrian replied, his tone cold, dismissive. He tried to move around the man again, but the guy shoved him back roughly.
I’m not done talking to you, boy, the man spat, his words dripping with condescension. The shove was more than just physical; it was a challenge, a provocation, daring Adrian to fight back.
Adrian stumbled slightly but caught his balance. He could feel people around them starting to watch, but he didn’t care about the crowd. His mind raced—he could fight back, but that would just give this guy exactly what he wanted.
You’re done, Adrian said quietly, his voice low, controlled. He locked eyes with the man, his stare unflinching. You think you can push me around because you’re afraid of what you don’t understand, but I’m not afraid of you. I’ve dealt with bigger men than you and worse insults. You’re just another loudmouth, hiding behind your hate. I'm better known as a lover than a fighter but you are about to make me go ghetto as he hell. If I fuck you up right now you'll regret messing with me. I'm just trying to walk away.
The man’s face twisted in anger, his hand raised, fingers curling into a fist aimed straight for Adrian. But Adrian didn’t flinch. His instincts kicked in, his body reacting before his mind had fully processed the danger. He dodged the incoming blow with a swift step to the side, the man’s fist swinging wide and catching only air.
